E.J. Manuel May Start Against Patriots Instead Of Jeff Tuel

BOSTON (CBS) — One of the biggest stories in the whole NFL last week centered around the Buffalo Bills and their quarterback situation. Namely, it was the lack of a big name that drew the headlines, with undrafted rookie Jeff Tuel slated to start in Week 1 against the Patriots.

However, the hullabaloo may turn out to have been much ado about nothing, as E.J. Manuel returned to practice for Buffalo on Sunday.

Manuel is also a rookie, but he was the first quarterback selected (16th overall) in April’s NFL Draft after an outstanding career at Florida State. He underwent a knee procedure during the preseason, which initially put his status for Week 1 in doubt and therefore thrust the undrafted Tuel into the starter’s spot. However, head coach Doug Marrone said there’s a chance that Manuel, who wore a knee brace at practice, will be ready to play come Sunday.

“If we can have him practicing on Wednesday and we feel that he’s good enough and mentally ready to play, then he’s going to play,” Marrone said. “I’ll be able to give everyone an answer on Wednesday.”

Until then, the world and the Patriots — as well as the Tuel family — will anxiously be waiting.